Ending your Rental Agreement

Often, situations arise causing tenants to contemplate the thought of ending their rental agreement. However, it is important to understand that your rental agreements is a legally binding contract, and no matter what great reason you may have for breaking it, you may be held responsible in a court of law if you do.

The first step in understanding the requirements regarding ending your rental agreement is to know what the terms of your agreement state. Some rental agreements and leases will explicitly state the repercussions should you back out of your rental agreement. If you find that for whatever reason, you simply must move, but your rental agreement states that you can’t, the best course of action is to simply talk to your landlord. Communication is always the best method as well as defense, and by speaking with your landlord, you may be able to find a resolution to your problem. Some of the most common reasons why people find that they need to end their rental agreements early include:

• Loss of Income and inability to pay rent
• A job change in another location
• Military requiring a move
• Dissatisfaction with the rental property
• Failure of the landlord to upkeep the rental property
• Roommate fails to uphold their share of the rent
• Dissatisfied with the location

There are certain situations where you may be able to legally break your rental agreement, for instance if a hurricane or fire damages or destroys your rental property you will more than likely be able to break your agreement. Also, if your landlord fails to maintain the property according to the terms of your agreement, you will more than likely be able to break the agreement. However, it is important to realize that you simply can’t pack up and move because the landlord isn’t doing his or her part. It is important to contact your local housing authority for guidance involving any issue that you have regarding these situations. The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers resources for finding local state legal assistance for renters. This is the best way to find out what your rights are and if your landlord is violating them. You can visit the HUD website here: HUD: Tenant Rights in Your State. If you have any questions regarding whether or not you can break your agreement don’t hesitate to contact your local authority.

Often, you can work out disputes with your landlord by simply discussing them. Always speak to your landlord in a courteous and respectful manner. Many times, landlords will agree to let you break your rental agreement if you can find someone who is willing to takeover your contract. However, it is imperative to realize that no matter what type of arrangement you and your landlord devise, it is crucial to put those terms in writing. Always make copies of anything that you and your landlord agree to. By utilizing proper communication and understanding the terms of your rental agreement, as well as your rights as a tenant, you will know how and when you can break your rental agreement.